Herentals FC (1) 1
Yadah FC. (0) 0
A dramatic match between Herentals and Yadah FC saw The Students claim a narrow 1-0 victory.
The game was marred by stoppages, injuries, and a red card, with referee Thanks Nyahungwe struggling to maintain control of the tense match.
Godknows Mukambi's early strike, assisted by a pinpoint cross from John Zhuwawu, proved to be the difference. Yadah's goalkeeper was left helpless as Mukambi converted the opportunity.
The Herentals' situation took a turn for the worse when Zhuwawu suffered a back injury and had to be substituted in the first half.
Yadah also lost their goalkeeper, Marshal Takarinda, due to injury.
Adding to the drama, former Kaizer Chiefs player Khama Billiat received a red card for a scuffle in the Herentals box. This dismissal means he will miss Yadah's crucial clash against Caps United next week.
- Ndiraya boost amid DeMbare crisis
- PSL clubs ruthless with coaches
- Ndiraya boost amid DeMbare crisis
- PSL clubs ruthless with coaches
Keep Reading
An unusual incident occurred when both goalkeepers were substituted simultaneously. Herentals' Takudzwa Chikosi reportedly suffered from vomiting and blurry vision, while Yadah's Marshal Takarinda was injured.
Herentals coach Celistino Benza expressed his satisfaction with the hard-fought victory, highlighting the importance of securing points against their local rivals.
"It was a Derby and we didn't expect anything less. Our games between Yadah FC even in Division One were always this tense. Collecting three points against Yadah was very important for us and we are happy that we are collecting points like this," he said.
He downplayed accusations of time-wasting by Herentals.
Yadah's coach, Thomas Ruzive, acknowledged his team's fighting spirit despite the loss. He expressed ignorance of the details surrounding Billiat's red card.
"I don't know what transpired and will need to confirm," he said.
Ruzive, when questioned about officiating, was tight-lipped.
"Referees are the ones responsible for officiating matches, and they have undergone training specifically for that purpose. We, as coaches, have undergone coaching courses, and I would prefer to focus on coaching," he quipped
Results
Chicken Inn 0-0 Dynamos
FC Platinum 1-0 Greenfuel
Ngezi Platinum 1-0 Bulawayo Chiefs
Bikita Minerals 1-1 TelOne
Herentals 1-0 Yadah
ZPC Kariba 0-2 Manica Diamonds
Today’s fixtures
Chegutu Pirates v Simba Bhora (Baobab), Caps United v Hwange (Rufaro), Arenel Movers v Highlanders